Detox is the first step towards recovery from substance abuse. It is the process of removing all addictive substances (drugs and alcohol of any kind) from the body. Detoxification is the most critical step towards recovery and ensures the individual is physically stable enough to begin and fully participate in a treatment program. 

The experience of detoxing will be different for each individual and is dependent on several factors, such as the length of the addiction and the substance — or substances — that is being abused. There is no standard length of time for detoxing. It could take days, weeks, or even months for the body to recover from withdrawal symptoms.

Safe Ways to Detox 

To safely detox, one should seek treatment from either a residential detox program or outpatient treatment program. 

Residential detox programs are located at treatment centers. An individual will reside for a period of time at such a facility and receive around-the-clock, on-site medical supervision. 

Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to undergo supervised treatment during the day, evenings, or weekends, with the ability to return to their own residences. This flexibility of treatment will enable people with existing commitments and responsibilities to receive the help and support they need while becoming sober.

Detoxing on your own or abruptly stopping the use of drugs or alcohol without medical supervision can lead to severe or even life-threatening complications. These can include severe dehydration, seizures, acute alcohol withdrawal, or even death. 

What to Expect From a Detox Program 

Both residential detox and outpatient treatment programs focus on the health, well-being, and recovery of the patient. Choosing the program that will work best for you or someone you know can depend on the severity of addiction and the physical and mental health of the individual.

Residential Detox Programs 

At Hawaii Island Recovery, we offer medically supervised detoxification in a safe and comfortable environment under the care of a board-certified addictionologist. Patients also receive additional support from our medical director, registered nurse, and resident managers. Our residential treatment programming is offered for a minimum of 30 days and up to 90+ days, depending on medical necessity.

The advantage of a residential medically supervised detox is that our team will make the withdrawal period as comfortable as possible and offer as much support as you need during the process. 

Our treatment spaces offer a tranquil and healing environment while you recover. A benefit of a residential program is that patients are less likely to be tempted by the environmental triggers or urges that led to their substance abuse. 

Outpatient Treatment 

Hawaii Island Recovery provides the best outpatient rehab in Hawaii for those trying to recover from addiction. Our goal is to make sure our patients learn to live alcohol- and drug-free lives. 

For many people, outpatient treatment is the option that works best for their lifestyle and is most adaptable for their needs. Treatments can be scheduled around work or personal obligations. 

There are varying types of treatment options if you are considering an outpatient program. Some programs are low-intensity, offering only educational substance abuse resources. Other programs offer intensive outpatient treatments that are comparable to residential programs. 

Which Treatment Should I Choose?

You should consider a residential detox program if: 

  • You’ve been unsuccessful in detoxing on your own
  • Outpatient treatment has not previously worked
  • You have reached your lowest point and feel like giving up
  • There is a constant urge to continue abusing substances
  • You need structure and motivation
  • You need to detox from multiple substances
  • You have been abusing substances for an extended period of time
  • Your addiction is severe
  • You feel you may relapse without around-the-clock care

You should consider an outpatient detox program if: 

  • You have less severe addictions
  • You need to maintain a daily routine
  • You have a solid support system of family and friends
  • You do not do well with highly structured environments
  • Costs of residential programs are prohibitive

Next Steps

When deciding if a residential detox program or outpatient treatment will work best for you, our licensed professionals are available to help you make an informed decision. Our team will assess each client to determine the best detox protocol for their individual needs. 

We also offer a confidential assessment that can be conducted either in person or via telehealth on platforms such as Zoom. 

After patients complete a detox program, we encourage them to move into continued programming. In addition to residential and outpatient programs, we offer ocean-based therapy and holistic health services to complement our evidence-based treatments. 

Properly detoxing is the foundation to a successful recovery from addiction. Medically supervised detox programs in a residential treatment facility or outpatient treatment programs are the safest way to detox from alcohol or drugs. Both residential and outpatient programs are focused on providing an individual with a roadmap to recovery to live a healthy and sober life. When considering which treatment program is best for your needs, you will need to evaluate the severity of your addiction, medical conditions, and the time and financial resources you have available. It is important to remember that attempting to detox on your own or abruptly stopping your use of addictive substances without medical supervision can result in serious complications or even death. If you have questions about residential detox programs versus outpatient treatment, please call Hawaii Island Recovery today at (866) 390-5070. Our purpose is to provide quality substance abuse treatment to promote a healthy way of life.